If medieval history is what you are after then you need to make sure you rent comfortable accommodation in Volterra. This is a small town situated on the hilltops of Tuscany. Here you can take part in the traditional medieval fair. The Volterra AD 1398 Festival is perfect for the entire family and has been happening every year for the past eight years. This is a time to forget about modern day living and take yourself back in time and explore the medieval town of Volterra.
For the last week of August, starting on the 3rd Sunday and ending on the 4th Sunday, Volterra and all its inhabitants are sent back to the year 1398. This was a period of power and evolution for the folks of Volterra. Today, the townsfolk are dressed in full period costume adding to the authenticity of this eventful week. Damsels, knights, musicians and merchants walk about the fairgrounds enveloping you in history. It is known to be the most famous costume festival in the whole of Italy. Your choice to rent a villa in Volterra or a villa in Tuscany that might be a short distance from this spectacular event is well worth the memories of this region.
As with most fairs there is entertainment galore all based on medieval activities. Why not try your hand at flag throwing or court dancing? Take part in crossbow shooting competitions or sit and watch duels being performed between the knights. Theatre performances in the streets make it a colourful, exciting and interesting occasion, too.
Just to make you feel like you really belong in this era, the fair has its very own currency. The ‘grosso’ was the monetary unit of this time period; you can go and exchange your euros for this money. You can then go and spend it at the many stalls that have the most delightful foods and gifts on display. The food is prepared in much the same way as it was in 1398 helping the authenticity of this amazing event. Even the crafts are mostly handmade from silks and woods.
While holidaying in Tuscany why not take the opportunity of visiting this great and wonderful hilltop town of Volterra and take a leap back in time. Rent accommodation in the Volterra area for your group or family in order to be a part of this amazing festival.
The fair is just one reason to stay in the town of Volterra. You may also like to take part in wine, olive grove, and cheese tours at various points close to Volterra. This section of Tuscany provides a long history of ancient entertainment coupled with more modern enchantments. Whether it is seeing a castle, eating pecorino cheese or dancing with a knight you and your whole family can remember this wonderful region for decades to come.